The Packers have secured contracts with four interior linemen for the upcoming season: Myers, Elgton Jenkins, Royce Newman, and Sean Rhyan. Barton’s potential move to the interior adds depth and fosters healthy competition within the group, potentially positioning him to compete for a starting role at the onset of the season, enhancing the competitive dynamics of the interior offensive line.
Barton is anticipated to be drafted between the mid-first and early second rounds. Historically, the Packers have avoided selecting offensive players in the first round, except for Jordan Love in 2020 and Derek Sherrod in 2011. However, with two second-round picks and two third-round picks in the 2024 draft, the Packers have sufficient draft capital to potentially trade up if Barton slips to the second round.
Scouts view Barton as a potential starting center, which may raise concerns about his draft value due to the traditionally lower emphasis on the center position. This could create an opportunity for the Packers to target Barton early on Day 2, as teams often prioritize positions perceived to have higher value early in the draft.
Barton’s versatility is a significant asset that should make him a priority for the Packers in the draft. Under the guidance of offensive line coach Adam Stenavich, the Packers have a history of developing talent. With Barton’s adaptability, there is a strong possibility that he could emerge as one of the league’s premier interior linemen. Stenavich’s successful development of Day 3 picks like Zach Tom and Rasheed Walker further highlights his ability to maximize players’ potential.
Given Barton’s potential impact and Stenavich’s track record in talent development, selecting him in the draft should be one of the Packers’ key priorities. His versatility aligns with the team’s needs, and under Stenavich’s coaching, Barton has the potential to become a cornerstone, bolstering the Packers’ interior offensive line.
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